Seizure -- Child

Definition

A
seizure
is a sudden change in behavior. It is caused by sudden, abnormal, and excessive electrical activity in the brain. A neonatal seizure occurs in newborn babies.

Seizures may be severe or mild. They may cause physical changes like convulsions. It may affect only part of the body or the entire body. A short seizure itself does not cause serious health conditions. Prolonged seizures can lead to permanent damage. The damage is due to decreased oxygen and excessive brain cell activity.

Treatment

Treatment for the seizures depends on the cause of the seizures. Some seizures will not require treatment. If the seizure is caused by an underlying condition your child's doctor will create a plan to treat that condition. Resolving the underlying condition will likely stop the seizures.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for your child. You may also be referred to a pediatric neurologist.

Medications

Anticonvulsant medication can help to prevent seizures. The medication that is used will depend on the type of seizure. These medications do have some side effects. As a result, they are often only used for severe or frequent seizures.

Medications are not usually prescribed for
febrile seizures
. These seizures are associated with a rapid increase in temperature due to a fever. Children will outgrow these seizures by about 5 years of age. They are rarely associated with long term problems so anticonvulsant medication is rarely recommended.

Surgery

Some severe seizures may be treated with brain surgery. This may occur in some children with epilepsy. During this type of surgery certain nerve fibers may be separate or a section of the brain may be removed. This surgery may help to reduce or eliminate seizures. Surgery is not done very often.

Prevention

Medicine, if recommended, can usually prevent seizures. It is important to take anticonvulsant medication as needed.

Febrile seizures are may be the first sign of a fever. This can make it difficult to prevent. About 30% of children that have had a febrile seizure will have another seizure when they have a fever. Your doctor may advise that you give your child medicine to keep fever down whenever he/she gets sick.
Note
: Aspirin is not recommended for children or teens with a current or
recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of
Reye's
syndrome
. Ask your doctor which other medicines are safe for your child.

Seizures can still happen despite treatment. Take the
safety steps
listed above if you notice your child's behavior changing.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.